Denarius of Julia Mamaea c. 228 - 229

Editor: So, this is a Denarius of Julia Mamaea, housed here at Harvard. It’s…well, a coin! But, wow, the detail for something so small is incredible, and the wear on it tells such a story. What do you make of it? Curator: It whispers tales, doesn’t it? Imagine the hands it’s passed through, the markets it’s seen. Look closely at Julia Mamaea's portrait—do you see the strength? The slight upturn of her lip hints at a formidable woman navigating a world of emperors and power plays. Editor: Absolutely. It’s more than just money; it’s propaganda, history, art all rolled into one tiny, tarnished package. Curator: Precisely! And that figure on the reverse? Perhaps a symbol of abundance, or a deity promising prosperity. It makes you wonder about the anxieties and aspirations of the people who used this coin daily. Food for thought, isn’t it? Editor: Definitely makes you think about the stories behind everyday objects. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. A coin is just the start of a journey!